Teriyaki Sauce: A Culinary Staple
Teriyaki sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate the taste of various dishes. It is a ubiquitous ingredient in Japanese cuisine, renowned for its sweet and savory flavor profile. Teriyaki sauce is commonly used as a marinade for meats, poultry, and seafood, infusing them with a rich, umami-packed flavor.
Ingredients and Preparation
The core ingredients of teriyaki sauce are soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. Soy sauce provides the salty base, while mirin, a sweet rice wine, adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. Sake, a Japanese rice wine, contributes to the sauce's complexity and umami. Sugar balances the savory elements, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
To prepare teriyaki sauce, simply combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. You can adjust the proportions of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences.
Culinary Applications
Teriyaki sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. It is a popular marinade for meats, such as chicken, beef, and pork. The sauce penetrates the meat, tenderizing it and infusing it with a delectable flavor. Teriyaki sauce also serves as an excellent dipping sauce for appetizers, such as tempura or spring rolls. Its sweet and savory notes complement the crispy textures of fried foods. Furthermore, teriyaki sauce can be used as a glaze for roasted vegetables, adding a touch of sweetness and a glossy sheen.
Health Benefits
In addition to its culinary versatility, teriyaki sauce also offers some health benefits. Soy sauce, a key ingredient, is a good source of protein and iron. Mirin, another essential component, contains antioxidants that have been linked to improved heart health. Sake, though present in smaller quantities, is known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
It is important to note, however, that teriyaki sauce is relatively high in sodium due to the presence of soy sauce. Therefore, individuals with high blood pressure or those following a low-sodium diet should consume it in moderation.
How many calories are in Teriyaki Sauce?
Each 1 tbsp of Teriyaki Sauce contains 16 calories.
Teriyaki Sauce Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 tbsp (18g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 16 Calories |
| Protein | 1.1g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2.8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 2.5g |
| Sodium | 0.69mg |
| Potassium | 0.0405mg |
| Calcium | 0.0045mg |
| Iron | 0.0003mg |